Five Americans face prison sentences of up to 12 years in the Turks and Caicos Islands, sparking concern among tourists. That’s the Americans being held on charges of illegally transporting ammunition to the luxury Caribbean tourist destination.
This has sparked outrage here in the United States with a number of social media campaigns such as “cancel Turks and Caicos” and “liberate Ryan Watson,” as well as pleas for mercy for prominent figures like the governors of Oklahoma, Pennsylvania and Virginia.
Following an increase in gun violence and arms trafficking, the Turks and Caicos Islands significantly tightened gun laws in 2022. The island has been a hotspot for American tourists looking for luxury resorts, shopping and dining, as well as pristine diving spots.
While Americans may not face the full twelve years, the rise of restrictive laws makes it difficult for them to pay a fine and return home.
Below you will find more information about each arrest.
The official warning only came from the US Embassy in Nassau (Bahamas)
After these arrests, the only official warning came from the American embassy in Nassau (Bahamas). Published on April 24 an alert for US citizens says: “CHECK YOUR BAGS! DO NOT BRING AMMUNITION/FIREARMS TO THE TURKISH AND CAICOS ISLANDS”.
“Firearms, ammunition (including stray bullets), and other weapons are not allowed in the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI). The penalty for traveling to TCI with a firearm, ammunition or other weapon may result in: minimum custodial sentence of twelve (12) years.the warning continues.
Details about the arrests
Ryan Tyler Watson and his wife from Oklahoma headed home in April after visiting the island for a birthday. Authorities found ammunition in his duffel bag, which he had unknowingly left behind after a hunting trip. While Watson’s wife was released and returned home, Ryan posted bail and remains on the island awaiting a hearing in June.
Michael Lee Evans of Texas pleaded guilty to possessing seven rounds of 9mm ammunition, while Bryan Hagerich of Pennsylvania pleaded guilty to possessing twenty rounds of rifle ammunition. Tyler Scott Wenrich, a 31-year-old from Virginia, was arrested on April 20, 2024, after customs officials found two bullets in his backpack.
Sharitta Shanise Grier of Orlando, Florida is due back in court in July after being charged with possession of ammunition.
The official US travel advisory for Turks and Caicos Islands has still not been updated
The US Department of State latest travel advice for the Turks and Caicos Islands they were categorized as level 2: take extra caution. According to the website: “The vast majority of crime occurs in Providenciales. Local medical care and criminal investigation options are limited.”
